With the summer season ahead of us, most people are looking for light, healthy and delicious snacks and lunches to whip up quickly. Whether you’re on the go, looking for a quick and easy post-workout snack or having a picnic outside to enjoy the sunshine, try the options below from Michele Canon, XPRO for STRIDE and Millie Hanson, XPRO for Pure Barre on Xponential+.
When deciding on something to make, keep in mind food options that are centered around protein, low in processed carbohydrates and have a moderate amount of fat. Most people think you should steer clear from all things fat. However, a small amount of dietary fat is an essential part of a healthy and balanced meal. Fat gives you energy and helps your body absorb vitamin A, vitamin D and vitamin E. Also, be careful on what you grab when you’re grocery shopping, because many foods contain hundreds of hidden calories and sugar.
Michele’s Mighty Sandwich:
I think we can all agree that nothing hits harder than a fresh, crisp sandwich while bathing under the sun! Michelle recommends making either a wrap or a sandwich. The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a bread or a tortilla for your wrap is finding sprouted or 100 percent whole grain bread. Once you find your perfect bread or tortilla, load it up with four to six ounces of favorite nitrate-free deli meat, vegetables, avocado spread, mustard and an avocado oil mayonnaise.
Millie’s Munchies:
It’s time to talk SNACKS! Don’t be afraid to let your ingredients shine for themselves. Millie’s go-to healthy snack is carrots and hummus. With hummus made up of chickpeas, it’s a great source of plant protein. When choosing a hummus, try to avoid additives. If you’re shopping for a hummus and not making your own, you will want to make sure the food label does not contain any additives such as potassium sorbate, artificial flavors, colorings, or benzoates.
To start the day off on the right foot, Millie recommends her go-to breakfast to fuel your body. Starting off with a base of oatmeal in a bowl, drizzle almond butter on top and then it’s time for your favorite fruit toppings! Millie likes to add bananas and blackberries. She then finishes it off with flaxseed, chia seeds, honey and cinnamon for the perfect, summer time bowl.
Give back to your body by fueling it with snacks and lunches like these that contains lots of nutrients, including protein to keep your energy at an all-time high so you can fully enjoy every second of summer. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your snacks and lunches either. Break out of your comfort zone, add some (natural) color to your plate, and try something new. Who knows, you may just love it!
